Which diabetes type is primarily due to autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing beta cells?

• A. Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
• B. Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
• C. Gestational Diabetes
• D. Prediabetes

Answer: (A)

Autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing beta cells leads to absolute insulin deficiency, which defines Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus. In this form, the immune system targets the pancreatic beta cells, often with islet autoantibodies, causing rapid loss of insulin production. Without enough insulin, blood glucose rises and the condition typically requires lifelong insulin therapy; it can present abruptly, sometimes with ketoacidosis.

This differs from Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, where the main issue is insulin resistance with a gradual decline in beta-cell function, often linked to obesity and metabolic syndrome. Gestational diabetes arises during pregnancy due to placental hormones increasing insulin resistance and usually settles after delivery, though it increases future diabetes risk. Prediabetes refers to impaired glucose regulation that hasn’t yet met criteria for diabetes.